Azerbaijani parliament adopts decision over amnesty

The draft resolution "On declaring amnesty on the occasion of the Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty" has been put up for discussion in the Azerbaijani parliament.

After discussions, the draft resolution was adopted in the first reading.

According to the draft amnesty act, it is envisaged to release from punishment or criminal liability persons who participated in combat operations to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Azerbaijan, as well as women, persons who have reached the age of 60, minors at the time of committing the crime, and other persons.

In addition, the draft provides for the release from punishment or reduction of the unserved portion of sentences for a number of persons sentenced to imprisonment for crimes that do not pose a great public danger, less serious crimes, or crimes committed through negligence.

The draft Amnesty Resolution submitted by Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev to the parliament on the occasion of the 'Year of Constitution and Sovereignty' is considered the most extensive amnesty document during the period of Azerbaijan's independence due to its scope. The decision is expected to apply to a total of about 20,000 people.